Q.2494 Chinese companies in Pok

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) whether presence of Chinese troops in PoK and Gilgit-Baltistan region has created tension to India as growing economic interest of Chinese companies, particularly in key infrastructure projects located in these areas, is also causing concern among security establishment which fears that Pakistan is encouraging Chinese investment to dilute India’s claim over PoK;
(b) if so, whether these concerns were discussed by PM during meeting with Chinese Premier;
(c) whether according to intelligence report 122 Chinese companies are operating in Pakistan at present; and
(d) if so, the other steps Government proposes to make to meet the threat?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SMT. PRENEET KAUR)

(a) to (d) Government has seen media reports regarding presence of Chinese troops in Gilgit-Baltistan area. Both the Chinese and the Pakistan sides have denied these media reports. Government is also aware that Chinese companies are executing infrastructure projects in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. Government has raised this issue with the Chinese side, including during the meeting of Prime Minister with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao. Government has clearly conveyed to the Chinese side India’s consistent position that Pakistan has been in illegal occupation of parts of the Indian State of Jammu and Kashmir since 1947. China regards Kashmir as a bilateral matter to be settled between India and Pakistan. Government has conveyed its concerns to China about their activities in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, and asked them to cease such activities. Government keeps a constant watch on all developments having a bearing on India’s national interest and takes all necessary measures to safeguard it.

http://www.mea.gov.in/mystart.php?id=220116820.

Rajya Sabha